peter's square for pope benedict xvi's last public appearance. this last final blessing and general audience moved outside to accommodate the crowd. the pope acknowledged the gravity of his decision to step down. >> this is a decision i have made after much prayers, trust in god's will, the deep love of christ's church. i will company to accompany the church with my prayers and ask each of you to pray for me and for the new pope. >> reporter: early this morning some dashed to find a place as close as possible. a bittersweet day for many including church leaders. >> it was such a beautiful moment to see the holy father give his whole life and service to the church and then for all of us to have a chance to say good-bye. >> reporter: not just those who will choose his successor. other roman catholics were moved as well. >> you had a lot of people that were very much excited to see the holy father and to thank him for his eight years as pope. >> reporter: the pope is also meeting with heads of state who have arrived for his farewell and then spendin